Question
I have been on coumadin therapy since a mitral valve replacement 4 years ago. Recently I was diagnosed with seropositive RA. I have had symptoms for years and in the past used NSAIDs with some relief. Will other drugs used for treatment (methotrexate, etc.) be contraindicated because of the coumadin?
Answer
Hi Nancy,
Great question !! Definitely nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen and all in that category are contraindicated because they will thin the blood further in someone on coumadin. Celecoxib (celebrex) doesn’t think the blood the same way so this drug would be safer in the presence of coumadin.
As for the more powerful class of drugs, the Disease Modifying AGents (DMARDs) like methotrexate, these are not contraindicated in the treatment of RA in someone taking coumadin. Good luck !!
